The Afghan Minister for Mines, Waheedullah Shahrani, has issued an invitation for increased participation by Indian companies in the country’s mineral mining. Mr Shahrani is in talks with the Indian Union Minister of Mines and Development, B. K. Handique, about a Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries that will cover investment, exploration and capacity building. Afghanistan wants to see a consortium approach to investment by Indian companies.
The potential for investment in Afghanistan’s mineral industry has also brought to light the potential for serious investment in the cement trade. Mr Shahrani has highlighted the demand for cement in his country, and hopes to persuade Indian companies to set up cement plants in Afghanistan. The raw materials necessary for cement can be found in Afghanistan, and the demand for cement means the entire production can be sold without exportation.
Field visits and discussions are scheduled to take place in April 2011.